Ranthambore Travel Guide

Ranthambore Overview

The Royal Ranthambore

Ranthambore is name of the small village that is located near the township of Sawai Madhopur. The place Ranthambore got its name from two hills named –‘Ran’ and ‘Thambore’. The very famous Ranthambore National Park is nestled between the ranges of Aravali and Vindhya. The glorious forest of Ranthambore was once the part of Central India. Landscapes of Ranthambore are rugged and having rocky mountain rangers, hill, rocky ridges and open valleys with lakes and pools. Ranthambore is one of the famous heritage sites that have Lake Palaces (Chhatris) with a majestic 1000 year ancient fort which is overlooking the park. There’s a beautiful –‘Jogi Mahal’ that is located at the foot of the fort and give quaint view of the Padam Talao. The place is full of grandiose predators and adorable preys which gives sightseers a charming picturesque view. The old crumbling walls, remains of pavilion, old wells and other ancient structure take a stand to witness the glorious past of Ranthambore.

Ranthambore and Its Royal History

From a wooden forest to one of the famous Wildlife Sanctuaries of India, Ranthambore has become one of the Best Tourist Destinations in India. The place has seen many battles flooded with courage and blood. It is believed that in 944 AD, Rajput King of Chauhan Dynasty laid the first stone of the magnificent Ranthambore Fort. From onwards, many monarchs came give their contribution in the construction of the fort and its main role was played by Rao Hammir Deo Chauhan. To honor Rao’shas contributed a canopy of 32 pillars that is locally known as –‘Battis Khamba Chhatri’ which was built as a mark of 32 years of king’s reign. Like Ranthambore the ancient fort has its magnificent history. The place was ruled by many empires including The Chauhans, The Mughals, The Mewar Dynasty and The Ghoris. The place was ruled by Prithviraj Chauhan 1 in 12th century, and then in 1192 AD Prithviraj 3 loses it to Mohammad of Ghori.

The glorious emperor of Delhi Sultanate and Father of Razia Sultan ‘Iltutmish’ captures Ranthambore in 12th century which was again captured by Chauhans after his death. The rulers of Mewar also play a vital role in history of Ranthambore. The place was captured by Rana Hamir Singh and Rana Kumbha from 1326 to 1468. Then from the hands of Mewar rulers to The Kachwaha rulers, the place has been a witness of many changes and reigns. Ultimately the Maharajas of Jaipur state acceded to India in 1949 and become a part of the state of Rajasthan in 1950. Inside the fort of Ranthambore there are Hindus temples dedicated to Ganesha, Shiva and Ram Lalaji that were built in 12th and 13th centuries by red Karauli stones.

Culture and Tradition of Ranthambore

Ranthambore has witnessed many reigns which were having their own customs, traditions, culture and values. The culture of the place is the mirror of society. Just like the traditions and culture being followed through-out the royal state of Rajasthan, Ranthambore also has different traditions and culture which have their own significance like during the birth of child there are some traditions follows as Namkaran, Mundan. During weddings, there’s a traditions of Tilak, Toran, Mehendi and Bhaat. Ranthambore gives you fair idea about the traditions and practices that are still followed by the locals.

This beautiful city of Ranthambore is famous for sweet dishes. The food here is wrapped with traditional cuisines and rituals that would be welcoming. The locals most likely to have traditional Rajasthani food that is Daalbaati Choorma with spicy fried green chili and tangy mango pickle. In sweets Gulaab jamun is very popular along with the traditional Rajasthani sweet dish –‘Ghewar’.

Ranthambore Map

Best Places to Visit Ranthambore

The city of Ranthambore is a place of many adventurous places and sightseeing spots. The place is situated on the border of famous Thar Desert. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ranthambore that you must not miss during your tour.

Ranthambore National Park:

For all the nature lovers if you wish to see the wild life in motion here is your destination. You will get mesmerized by watching the wild cats –‘Tigers’ in motion. The park is considered as one of the finest parks in Rajasthan. The National Park is located near Thar Desert and is surrounded by the mighty Aravali and Vindhya hill ranges. Spread in more than 300 plus sq. km area the park houses many vicious predators and adorable preys like leopards, hyenas, sambhar, jackals, deer and many more. You can enjoy the mesmerizing view of the flying birds which are about 260 species. The Park is open for visitors from the month of October to May. The best Time visit the park is between November and March.

Ranthambore Fort:

The majestic fort was built in 944 AD and it features a breathtaking view of Ranthambore National Park. The first stone of the forest was laid by the Chauhan rulers and there after many rulers gave their contribution in the making of the monument. It is believed that the famous Mughal emperor Akbar also lived in this fort. During 1950s it became the part of the ‘Sawai Madhopur Game Sanctuary’ that was laid to conserve the dwindling wildlife in the area.

Trinetra Ganesh Temple:

There’s an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha which was believed to be built in 12th or 13 century. This temple is situated inside the Ranthambore Fort. The temple was built by the Mewar King –‘King Hammer’ who is believed to be an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha. According to the legends during the war King Hammer was running out of food stock. One night Lord Ganesha came in the dreams of the king and assured him that his problem will be solved. The next morning, miraculously the war was ceased and the food stock refilled and then King decided to build a temple of Lord Ganesha.

Surwal Lake:

The Lake is actually situated 25 km away from Ranthambore. The enchanting beauty of lake will spellbound you. The best time to visit here is between November and March. During the season of birds’ migration you may get to see birds from all parts of the world. This enchanting water body invites birds whose adorable tweeting offer soothing experience to ears.

Other magical sites that enchants you with their beauty and history are Kachida Valley, Raj Bagh Ruins, Padam Lake, Jogi Mahal, Lakarda and Anantpura, Malik Talao and many more.

Ranthambore Weather

Best Time to Visit Ranthambore

There are times when hot places are the best places to be on a holiday list but only if you make a right choice. Ranthambore a small village of Rajasthan is one such place. Travellers can visit the National Park as per the safari timing which is from October to June every year. The best time to visit Ranthambore is from November to April when the weather is mild and one can see majestic predators without any problem.

How to Reach Ranthambore

Ranthambore and the National Park are well-connected with all the major cities in India.

Airways:

The nearest airport to reach the place is Sanganer Airport of Jaipur. The distance from Jaipur to Ranthambore is approx. 180 km.

Railways:

The nearest railway station that connects Ranthambore to important cities is Sawai Madhopur Railway Stations.

Roadways:

A good cluster of buses connects Sawai Madhopur, the nearest town with quite major areas around.

Ranthambore is a destination that is an origin of beauty with enchanting natural locations and off-course which is unconquered by modern civilization.